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Finding His Future @ PVCC - Shaun Jones

Engineering Research is This Veteran’s Career Goal.

Growing up in rural North Carolina, Shaun Jones said that he always had a curious and inventive mind and the determination to use it to its fullest potential. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy after graduating from high school, but decided near the end of his five-year term that there was more he wanted to do outside the service. “I had planned to start at a university, but I’d been out of school for such a long time I realized that wasn’t the best option for me.”

Shaun said that while living in Norfolk, he was looking into Virginia community colleges when a friend told him about PVCC, so the two traveled to Charlottesville in April 2012 for a weekend visit. “It was springtime, and I saw the school and thought the area was just beautiful. When I found out the College offered the engineering program I was looking for, I was sold.”

Later that year, Shaun moved to the area and enrolled at PVCC, where he is pursuing an Associate of Science degree in Engineering. He said that his professors have not only enhanced his interest in his program of study, but also have opened his eyes to new ways of conversation and thinking – including fostering a love of reading. Shaun also likes the fact that the College offers his required courses at times which allow him to work a part-time job.

After PVCC graduation in May 2015, Shaun hopes to transfer to either U.Va. or Virginia Tech to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering. He envisions continuing his education into graduate school – possibly seeking a Ph.D. in his field. “I’m interested in conducting research, and I’d like to have my own business. I could also see myself writing a book someday.”

Shaun said that no matter what he ends up doing, he will continue to live by his own motto: “Never stop improving.”